What to do if you get a LAYOFF NOTICE

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TEXAS AFT: WHAT TO DO IF YOU ARE LAYED OFF 

 

KNOW YOUR RIGHTS

* If you have a term teaching contract that ends at the end of this school year (2010 - 2011), and you have received a notice of proposed nonrenewal of your contract for next year, you have the right to request a hearing on your proposed nonrenewal. 
            * If you have a multi-year term contract that continues beyond this school year (2010 - 2011), or a continuing contract, you have the right to request a hearing on your proposed termination.

            * If you have a probationary contract, and you have received a notice that the district is terminating your employment at the end of this school year (2010 -2011), the district’s decision is final and may not be appealed. You do have the right to file a grievance.

 REVIEW YOUR LOCAL POLICY

* Review your local policy on Reductions in Force (RIF). In most districts, this policy will be identified as Policy DFF. The district’s local RIF policy will govern the process and criteria to be used in implementing a RIF.

            * Review your local policy on non renewals and termination of contracts. In most districts, the nonrenewal policy will be identified as Policy DFBB. In most school districts, the termination policy will be identified as Policies DFBA and DFD.

 DO NOT RESIGN WITHOUT CONSULTING WITH YOUR UNION

* If you resign, you will lose your right to contest your nonrenewal or termination. Your union representative can help you determine if your position has been correctly identified as being subject to the RIF, whether the district has followed its policies, and explore your best options, including challenging the proposed action or resigning.  Consulting with your union representative is the best way to make sure that your rights are protected.

 MEET YOUR DEADLINE TO REQUEST A HEARING

* If you have a term contract, you have 15 calendar days from when you receive notice of the proposed action to request a hearing. 

            * If you have a continuing contract, you must notify the board of your intention to contest your termination within 10 calendar days and request the hearing within 15 calendar days.

            * The notice of proposed nonrenewal or termination will explain how to request a hearing and where to send in your request.

            * If you decide to request a hearing, work with your union rep to request the hearing. However, remember that your union reps are also busy helping other members. You are in the best position to follow up and make sure that this gets done. Do not let the deadline pass without making sure that the hearing has been requested.

 

GET A COPY OF YOUR PERSONNEL FILE